This course introduces a selection of musical cultures from the geographical breadth of Africa. Following an introductory exploration of the fundamental aesthetic and social parameters governing African musical practice, we will proceed to examine in more depth regional case studies from North, South, East, West and Central Africa. Attention will be given to both traditional and urban music-making contexts, and styles covered will include Shona mbira music, Tuareg rock, West African highlife, Ba'Aka vocal polyphony and South African kwela. Through readings, writing, lecture-demonstrations, and hands-on participation, this course satisfies the EDI requirement by investigating the intersection of African music with politics, gender, advocacy, globalization and other broad themes.

Class Format: lecture

Requirements/Evaluation: evaluation will be based on four tests, two papers, attendance, and class participation

Additional Info: not available for the Gaudino or Pass/Fail options

Additional Info2:

Prerequisites: no prerequisites: prior musical background is not essential for this class

Enrollment Preference: preference given to current or prospective majors in Music and Africana Studies concentrators

Department Notes:

Material and Lab Fees:

Distribution Notes: meets Division 1 requirement if registration is under MUS; meets Division 2 requirement if registration is under AFR